Children often fall and injure their collar bones.  This is a common injury and will heal quickly.  It is very rare that any surgery or significant medical input will be required.  Please watch the following video for more information.

What should I expect and what can I do to help my child’s clavicle to heal?

The fractured clavicle is likely to be painful for four to six weeks.

Your child may find it more comfortable to sleep sitting upright for a few days after the injury.

The shoulder and arm can be moved out of the sling as pain allows. This will usually be about two weeks after the injury but can be sooner if comfortable.

As the fracture heals there will be a bump over the bone. This will disappear but can take one year to do so. If your child is older than ten years old a small bump may remain.

Your child may return to sports such as swimming as soon as comfortable, but should avoid contact sports (such as football, rugby and basketball) for 6 weeks.

If your child is still experiencing significant symptoms after three months, please contact the fracture clinic for further advice or follow-up.

Contacts / Further information

For any queries in relation to your injury or for further advise please contact your local Emergency department minor injuries or contact the NHS service on 111.